OFA members in Kent County have been experimenting ways in which to lower elevated levels of vomitoxin (DON) in corn. The following suggestions are a result of their experiences with lowering counts.
Red dog, fines and small tip kernels seem to be the biggest carriers of the vomitoxin (DON).
To remove some of these particles, some farmers have found that opening up the screens on the combine, unloading augers or any other augers is helping to lower the vomitoxin levels.
Another application that had some success is to turn up the air volume to remove the light kernels, red dog and fines.
The use of a drum cleaner has also helped.
Running the fans on the storage bin with as much air as possible can also help lower the volume of corn that enters the bin. This adjusts the flow of corn to the amount of red dog, fines and smaller and light kernels. These particles are most apt to be carrying the high levels of vomitoxin.
We want to hear from OFA members about what has worked for them in lowering elevated levels of vomitoxin (DON) in corn. Please contact us at DON@ofa.on.ca and share what has worked for you in dealing with this issue.